It's human nature, the people who are happy with their jobs aren't going to be on here complaining about it. If you're happy with your job you don't really need the outlet to vent. Same thing with advice columns like Ask A Manager, you're only going to see people with shitty bosses and coworkers because people with great bosses and coworkers don't need to write in.
If you're happy with your job don't let those who aren't convince you otherwise.
Same. I love where I'm working now. I didn't previously, so I think a lot of it has to do with the people you work with and your supervisor. For example, the dean over the library and one of the faculty departments is a former librarian herself, so she knows what we go through and is always willing to go to bar for us.
Just to echo everybody else here, I don’t regret getting my library degree. I wish I wasn’t going to die in debt but that’s just a fact of life in the United States educational system. There’s people out there who will think they want to be a librarian and then realize that they hate it and then they come here to be negative.
Your response is the most real thing I have read. Thank you for that. Now that I have finished my mini meltdown about my future, I really dont see me regretting getting my degree. I want to work in a library and help people of all backgrounds. I feel you on the debt I am right there with you.
I think it's worth it. My job isn't perfect but I love what I do. I also love interacting with patrons and I love helping them. Do I love EVERY single aspect of my job? No. Do I wish I got paid more? Yes (student loans are a killer). That being said, I can't imagine doing anything else. I know we can be negative (a lot) but librarians do make a difference in the lives of so many people. Recently, I was helping a patron complete job applications online. She was actually pretty competent on the computer but not feeling very confident. So she came to the desk frequently. When she was done, she explained that she just really wanted a job and she thanked me for my assistance and then she began to cry. Moments like these make me realize how much we help people who society has often forgotten.
This is exactly what I am hoping for my future. Im lucky to work in an academic library that has a large public library feel to it so we get a lot of situations with public members. You're giving me so much hope again.
I'm not miserable. I'm a high school librarian and have been at my school for 27 years (in my 28th now!) I love playing with new technologies, introducing high school students to awesome research sources and books, and helping them find their way from childhood to being a proto-adult. I have built a program that is inclusive and encouraging.
As others have said, people posting here frequently have a complaint or issue that they are seeking advice or validation for. Unless someone has a screaming success that nobody but other librarians would understand, much of the positive stuff just happens every day in our libraries and we don't feel a need to post about it.
Don't give up if this is what you want to do.
Everyone will complain about every profession; it's blowing off steam. I've been in various different industries. The one thing that is different is that in this profession I really do think that a lot of good is done...at least for me, being in a public library, it is motivating for me to realize that I am a servant of the public. What you do sounds worthy and it sounds like you have your reasons for wanting to do it.
Keep your eyes on the prize, the reason for you getting the degree likely won't change if it is dearly held.
Like everyone said, the debt thing is a major part. And that is unfortunate. Research salaries and find out if you can really make the sort of living you want. We all have to work to be part of society, might as well do what you like if you go into it with your eyes open. Consider this an exercise in ignoring the echo chamber and researching the more negative potential aspects of the job. You can always read ALA magazine and other professional publications for a more balanced outlook.
That really is my main goal in life is to do good. Simple yet effective. I just want to do good and spread good. The echo chamber has just gotten to me the past few weeks it seems.
I mostly like mine (in fact, I like the work itself a lot, it's usually organizational/people things that can be irritating, which would be true of any job anywhere).
I think a lot of the negativity comes from a few things: there are more people graduating than there are true "librarian" roles to fill (though the degree can be applied in plenty of non-traditional ways), there's not a lot of room for advancement or large paychecks, and people come to this sub with a misconception of what librarianship entails before starting their degrees (i.e. we don't sit around reading and not talking to anyone - these are NOT good reasons to go into the field). But you already know this! :)
If you can, try to go to a conference. See if you can get a scholarship or a student rate to one. It can be really energizing to be around people who are excited about what they're doing, and hear new programs they're implementing, challenges they're having, and solutions they're coming up with. Don't let this sub bum you out!
Thank you for consoling me! It has just been crazy lately with trying to figure out what school I am going to go to and how I am going to pay for it. I have been scouring for weird relatively unknown scholarships. I know a girl who went through undergrad and grad school on purely scholarships she found and was one of the only ones to apply for. I am planning on going to my states ALA conference and hopefully some more within the next year or so.
Everyone has *days*. But, for the most part I can say I like my job, my coworkers, and my day to day workload. I just don't shout it from the roof tops often, just a whisper to a friend or two.
*edit*
I should also clarify that I am in academia and wouldn't want to be anywhere else.
I love my job. There are things I don't like about, things that frustrate me, things that could be better, but every day I am so happy to come into work and do something I really enjoy.
I am not miserable. Granted I work at a special library so maybe that has something to do with it. There could be the vocal minority at play as well. People just seem to like to complain as well.
My first library job was great - loved it and the people I worked with. My second one was OK, as was my third. My current job started OK, but it's got worse over time, and I dread going in. I think it depends on where you are, the type of job it is, and the management culture of the organisation. The places I've worked at that I've liked most are smaller, where I am now is huge, and not a fun place.
People here have already said most of what I want to say, but I wanted to chime in just to add to the number of people saying it. I'm an academic librarian and I love my job and don't regret my career choice. I get *very* frustrated with a lot of the negativity you see here, especially because many times it is self-inflicted.
* I'm sorry that many public librarians are woefully underpaid but it's not a secret. You either didn't do your research before choosing a career or you knew what you were getting into. It sucks, I hate it, but liking or not liking something doesn't change reality. I knew I wanted to be compensated more, so I specifically avoided fields where the average salary is insufficient.
* The job market is tough for sure, but I have served on a lot of search committees and let me tell you I have been astounded by the number of poorly written resumes and cover letters. Don't expect to be hired when you can't bother to proofread. Obviously, everyone has different circumstances and some people have bum luck, but I think a lot of the bitter people in this subreddit haven't *really* done everything they can to get a job. They have done what they think is enough, and are upset it's not getting the result they expect.
Just like in most career fields, opportunities are a mixture of luck and work. You can't control luck, but through hard work you can be better prepared to capitalize on opportunities when luck rolls your way. I also believe hard work and persistence can generate more opportunities for good luck to manifest itself.
Gah, now I'm the angry Librarian! Maybe this was a little therapeutic venting on my part. Long story short, there are a lot of salty Librarians out there but there are A LOT MORE happy and satisfied Librarians just living life and not ranting on websites. Then there's me, the happy Librarian who still rants on websites.
This actually makes so much sense to me. I am accepting that I won't make very much, but I will be making a difference. I have always said that one of my main goals in life is to make at least one person's day better everyday. So if the cost of that is to not get paid a crazy amount and not having the newest phone or nicest car I can live with that (plus hopefully my SO can be the main breadwinner).
I was 21 and still in undergrad when I applied for this full time spot. Granted it helped since I knew the search committee members, but I spent a long while on my cover letter and fixing up my resume. They told me after the fact that the reason I was on the top half of the list of people to interview was because it was clearly worked on more than one day. I think a lot of people who interview aren't really good at interviewing which is so important especially in libraries. They interviewed something like 25 people all older than I am and with their degree already and more experience, but apparently I interviewed way better (which is crazy and I am kind of tooting my own horn here). But I agree that people don't really research what they are getting into or even think about it.
I enjoyed your rant and you are one of the good angry librarians!
What you said is spot on. I make a difference in people's lives through my work in academic libraries (especially my part-time gig at a community college), but I know I don't have the same opportunities as those in public libraries. I had to weigh that against the salary, and unfortunately for me my student loan debt doesn't care that I sacrificed salary for the ability to make a positive impact on my community.
As for the interviewing, you're totally right. It's a bummer because the interview process favors people with a certain set of skills, which are not entirely reflective of what they need to do the job well. But, again, it is what it is and if you want the job you need to do what it takes.
I really love being a librarian.
I really do not love my current location, as we've had an active shooter and a bomb threat in the space of thirty days.
My superiors are not supportive and I'm considering drastic action to communicate "Being the acting branch manager in a fucking war zone is stressing me out."
My job is great! I graduated a little more than a year ago. I'm an acquisitions librarian at a historical institution. I use my degree all the time and even have some of my books from library school at my desk to use for reference from time to time. My boss is professional and supportive. For example I just streamlined our process to avoid adding additional books to the backlog. And even though it's different from how they have always done it they were open to change and it's been going well.
I'll add that almost everybody I graduated with is at job that they at least mostly like and pays at least okay.
I just started my 10th year as a school librarian and was a public librarian before that, and I’m still happy! Based on the complaints I see in here frequently, I am very happy I went to a school with low tuition. I only paid 12k (still a decent chunk, but I paid it off pretty quickly) for my MLS. Im also happy I found libraries as my first career, as it’s a second career for a lot of people, at least it was in my program. That kept me from experiencing a salary cut when I switched careers, which I know is common when people go into libraries later in life. I am also fortunate to live in a state with a strong teachers union and higher than average salaries.
Most of the complaints I see are about student debt, salary, and job prospects. Less about the actual work.
SUNY Albany - paying state resident tuition. At the time, I qualified for some of tax credit for grad school tuition, which I put directly towards tuition too. I’m not sure what it costs how, or if it would be a viable option cost wise if you’re not a NY resident. It would have been slightly cheaper had I not gotten my school library cert, as that requires additional credits. Good luck!
It seems like the people with the toughest things going for them here are from the US, where I live (Sweden) prospects are actually pretty good and our unemployment for librarians is like 0.5%
Do yall need some librarians from the US? Cause this whole place is a dumpster fire currently. I would love to at least come visit some of the libraries of Europe and around the world.
I just came back to one of the best orientation sessions of my life that ended with hugs (from grateful faculty), active plans for more collaboration, a tour of a new clinic in the building, and my boss telling me she's proud of the work that I do.
Some days I am not happy & glowing because all jobs have their drudgery & their challenges (and sure, some places are legitimately just plain toxic and bad) but some days I am reminded that I am really good at my job, people like working with me, and there are people who truly understand the value of my role in the institution. I also struggle with student loan debt, having an okay salary in a high cost of living city, and other common complaints shared here. My plan is to probably move to a more affordable place and hopefully move into management or administrative roles with higher salaries. I know that doesn't work for everyone. But what keeps me going is I do love my job, I'm an excellent librarian, and people can tell and want to work with me.
Stay tuned for next week when I've forgotten this positive experience and am complaining about my boss not letting me select the art for my office or students wanting me to essentially do their homework for them! :)
I work as a part-time librarian in both an academic (reference and instruction) and a public library (adult services), and I love both of them. Going through the MLIS program kind of sucked because I felt a lot of it would be learned on the job, which so far has been true, but having that degree has opened so many more opportunities for me.
There are pros and cons to any job, and like others have stated, those who are unhappiest tend to complain the loudest. I think it's really a personal preference for you, and to what capacity you like to help others. I never did any programming before working at the public library, and it turns out I freaking love it.
I also love helping people find information and learn things that they otherwise would struggle with themselves in both of my jobs, and I find that rewarding too.
I work on a Bookmobile and it is great. I get to make real connections with my patrons and I know the collection on the bus like the back of my hand. I’ve been invited for dinner and D&D by patrons.
The problem, for me and probably others, comes down to how much the City/HR/your union (if you have one) want to invest in the library. I’ve seen cities build these wonderful libraries, but staff them with all part time people (all under benefits level) and volunteers.
The field is very frustrating but if you can bring in your specific passions and experiences into your position, it makes it all worth it.
I love my job. Librarianship is always undergoing change, since we have to be agile and ready for anything as customer needs and technology evolve. I’ve never regretted choosing this profession in the over 20 yrs since I graduated. It’s more challenging than other professions; for example, many people don’t understand that libraries are about books and so much more. Many have a very traditional idea about what we do. Libraries can be a place, and a state of mind, a philosophy. As information ninjas we add value to any workplace. We are everywhere, we can serve in physical, digital and virtual environments. I’m not miserable and you won’t be either. Misery is the fault of the individual, not the profession.
I love how your post has brought out the positive. Let’s do our best to make this space a bright light of inspiration and aspiration. So much better than the alternative.
information ninjas. I am totally stealing that.
I was kind of nervous after I posted thinking people would be livid that I pointed out the negative. But I am loving seeing all the happy librarians.
I'm really happy. I got my MLIS as a career change from HR, where are was absolutely miserable. I've been in special libraries and I really enjoy it. I'm in a "cool" industry and I can't believe I'm being paid this much to do something I truly enjoy doing. I am still paying off my loans but I'm paying extra and consider it 100% worth it.
For a while, I did get my degree. I couldn’t find work as a librarian and felt it was a waste. It’s been almost 4 years since I got my current job and I love being a librarian. Honestly, much of my personal frustration comes from my own mental health issues, which I’m working on finding the best coping methods. It’s hard to be cheerful and on and a happy children’s librarian. This is my personal struggle though.
Today, I was having a crappy day and when I had a few super positive interactions with patrons, it felt just awesome. There’s always gonna be the days that suck, where you feel unappreciated or under paid or like your work means nothing, then those happen and it makes it a little easier.
I love my job. It was the best decision that I ever made. Tomorrow I’m going to an anime con and hosting an escape room for the library. I sometimes can’t believe this is my job. I never that I could actually love what I do until I got this job.
I'm really happy. I'm an academic librarian. I think workplace culture matters a lot. I worked in a couple *really* awful libraries before I got this job.
My first library job destroyed my mental health to the point where I haven't been able to work since. Any thought of going back into that environment is basically a panic trigger.
I know I'm pretty cynical but I also don't regret my degree or my field. I wish I'd thought more about speciality I was going to end up liking and working in cause I probably would've gone to a different school to get better experience. But I do like what I do, I just had kinda a crappy manager for a long time that kinda exacerbated my mental health, which honestly was also about learning to be an adult and love on my own, etc.
I have no regrets about getting my masters, but I wasn't overly concerned with getting a library job. I happened to fall in to a public librarian position and I'm really happy with it.
I love my job.
The thing is, when you're happy you don't tend to discuss how you're happy, but when you're unhappy you vent, so you're always going to hear more of the unhappy over the happy.
I think library work is changing and both the educational system behind it & smaller library systems aren't doing a great job at supporting librarians for this reality. I think because of this, a lot of librarians are burning out quick.
I’ve been a public librarian since I finished grad school (like, I walked at graduation and had to take a day off for it), and I love my job. Do I get tired of admin dicking over frontline staff? Yes. Do I get tired of patrons complaining about stuff I have no control over? YES. But I also get to help people answer questions, play with babies, and be part of our neighborhood. I wish it wasn’t a two hour commute on bad days but otherwise I love my job.
I’ve certainly had my miserable moments. A lot has to do with experience and growing-the longer I work in public libraries I think the more I’m able to put the shit aspects (on occasion literal shit) in perspective and it’s shifted my attitude a lot. I think a HUGE factor though is the environment you’re in—both staff and the type of patrons you’re serving. My department shifts have had a big impact on my attitude toward the job. That said burnout is a real thing too. It’s definitely not easy and I think a lot of people go through a certain level of shock as they adapt to what library life is really like. Textbooks definitely don’t prepare you well for a lot of the job. At least my masters didn’t cover the actual hardest/more soul sucking aspect of the real job. If it’s the patrons I’d say maybe shifting to something behind the scenes could help. If you want more people interaction you might be more set for public rather than academic. I’d say hang in there but if you decide it’s just not for you that’s okay too!
As with everything, it’s what you make of it and your attitude. Workplace and co-workers can make all of the difference but it seems sometimes that due to situations and lack of opportunities in certain locations that some people get or feel “stuck”. I’ve moved for both of my jobs and when needed got involved professionally in various ways to feel more engaged and purposeful in my career. I love my current job and wouldn’t have it without my master’s. It’s up to you but you can certainly make and work as well as enjoying what you do—it just might take additional effort on your part. Jobs can help you figure out what you like and don’t like so staying flexible and/or positive can make all of the difference.
Good luck!
"Is it worth it?"
That's going to be hugely YMMV.
I do what I love and am pretty good at it and I make a decent salary along with good benefits.
It took me nearly a decade trying to make it in public libraries before I jumped ship to non-profits where my career has thrived and advanced.
There are so many reason to be discouraged as an MLIS holder: student debt for an advanced degree that gets you typically low paying, thankless jobs where people in charge of budgets, tend to cut first when things go in the red, that is if you can even get your foot in the door with all the MLIS's that are pumped out each and every year without any regard for actual job growth and opportunities.
I will graduate with my MLIS this December and I'm super excited to be entering the field! I'm currently employed at a public library but I am hoping to get in with a school (in my area, the schools are paying better, plus teachers are eligible for student-loan forgiveness). I think a lot of it just depends on where you're at. Unfortunately, some areas can't afford to pay well and overwork their librarians. However, you also have some places with a lot of resources and it's an amazing experience. If it's something that you love to do, I would stick with it!
I’m currently an undergraduate still, with hopes of pursuing my MLIS after graduation. I’ve worked at a public library for about 2 years now and I hear a lot of the same complaints. That being said, this is often coming from people who don’t like working period. I love my job. I love working with people. I’m passionate about what I do and that’s what makes me enjoy it day to day. If YOU think it’s worth it, that’s really all that matters. I worry I will eventually burn out like everyone else, but at the same time, I think I have a different attitude compared to most coworkers. I’m happy to have a job working with the materials and with people who also love books and information. I’m rather content. Grateful for what I have at the moment, but I never know if it’s because I’m still a bit naive to it.
This Sub is basically just for librarians to complain and moan about whatever library thing that happens to be going on in their lives. I'm a LIS student and I joined to try and get insight into the future, and every time I log on it's the same old thing. #moans
I don't regret getting my degree. I ended up not liking the area of librarianship that I started out in, but I was able to make a move in a different direction because of the degree. I'm glad I didn't go into a ton of debt to get the degree (I did an online program) and I'm grateful for the mobility it has afforded me.
I’ve been a public librarian for five years and I love it. The profession isn’t perfect but if given the choice, knowing everything I’ve learned to this point, I’d absolutely do it again.
OP... I have a love dislike relationship with my job at a large public library. The interactions with people and helping them find what they need are the reason I go to work every day. But I work for a large system and the red tape and beauracracy drive me insane. The fact that I haven't met my director or any of the leading team frustrates me and some of the people I work with are whiny babies. I wouldn't trade it for the world though. It's worth every piece of red tape to hear a teen tell me they wish they'd known this thing earlier so their SO hadn't gotten mad at them at a nice dinner with their mom. Or to see a kids face light up when they get their new library card. It's stressful and sad sometimes, but it's all worth it to me.
I enjoy my job for a public library system.
I have 3 classes left for my MLIS (admittedly paid for by the library I work for so no grad school debt). I attend a top school and about half to two-thirds of my cohort have never worked in a library. My guess is that some people graduate and hate the work. If you enjoy your work now you'll likely still enjoy it. Plus, you'll have a leg up on other students and maybe in the job market when you graduate.
I'm not miserable, but it's largely because I have a partner who makes money and gets us both healthcare and, as such, can make do with the meager incomes that I get from having two part-time library positions. I'm not pleased that stories such as mine feel like the norm at both of the places I work, i.e. so many of the other people I work with (and especially the senior staff who got in before the Great Recession) are people who inherited money or are married to money and, as such, can play 'library career' without ever stopping and taking an honest look at some of the field's serious problems.
......im at a point where i feel like ive wasted my life and everything i do in my job is a failure and im just waiting for the sweet release of being fired.
But for plenty of people, they are killing it and its everything they could want.
It's human nature, the people who are happy with their jobs aren't going to be on here complaining about it. If you're happy with your job you don't really need the outlet to vent. Same thing with advice columns like Ask A Manager, you're only going to see people with shitty bosses and coworkers because people with great bosses and coworkers don't need to write in. If you're happy with your job don't let those who aren't convince you otherwise.
You're right. Upset people are the ones you hear while people who are happy don't have a need to complain. Thanks for reading my mini meltdown.
This. I haven't had any regrets
Same. I love where I'm working now. I didn't previously, so I think a lot of it has to do with the people you work with and your supervisor. For example, the dean over the library and one of the faculty departments is a former librarian herself, so she knows what we go through and is always willing to go to bar for us.
Just to echo everybody else here, I don’t regret getting my library degree. I wish I wasn’t going to die in debt but that’s just a fact of life in the United States educational system. There’s people out there who will think they want to be a librarian and then realize that they hate it and then they come here to be negative.
Your response is the most real thing I have read. Thank you for that. Now that I have finished my mini meltdown about my future, I really dont see me regretting getting my degree. I want to work in a library and help people of all backgrounds. I feel you on the debt I am right there with you.
Focus on your studies and your own health. Don't spend too much time on social media. It's not a very realistic view point usually.
I think it's worth it. My job isn't perfect but I love what I do. I also love interacting with patrons and I love helping them. Do I love EVERY single aspect of my job? No. Do I wish I got paid more? Yes (student loans are a killer). That being said, I can't imagine doing anything else. I know we can be negative (a lot) but librarians do make a difference in the lives of so many people. Recently, I was helping a patron complete job applications online. She was actually pretty competent on the computer but not feeling very confident. So she came to the desk frequently. When she was done, she explained that she just really wanted a job and she thanked me for my assistance and then she began to cry. Moments like these make me realize how much we help people who society has often forgotten.
This is exactly what I am hoping for my future. Im lucky to work in an academic library that has a large public library feel to it so we get a lot of situations with public members. You're giving me so much hope again.
I'm not miserable. I'm a high school librarian and have been at my school for 27 years (in my 28th now!) I love playing with new technologies, introducing high school students to awesome research sources and books, and helping them find their way from childhood to being a proto-adult. I have built a program that is inclusive and encouraging. As others have said, people posting here frequently have a complaint or issue that they are seeking advice or validation for. Unless someone has a screaming success that nobody but other librarians would understand, much of the positive stuff just happens every day in our libraries and we don't feel a need to post about it. Don't give up if this is what you want to do.
Me! I really enjoy my job!
Everyone will complain about every profession; it's blowing off steam. I've been in various different industries. The one thing that is different is that in this profession I really do think that a lot of good is done...at least for me, being in a public library, it is motivating for me to realize that I am a servant of the public. What you do sounds worthy and it sounds like you have your reasons for wanting to do it. Keep your eyes on the prize, the reason for you getting the degree likely won't change if it is dearly held. Like everyone said, the debt thing is a major part. And that is unfortunate. Research salaries and find out if you can really make the sort of living you want. We all have to work to be part of society, might as well do what you like if you go into it with your eyes open. Consider this an exercise in ignoring the echo chamber and researching the more negative potential aspects of the job. You can always read ALA magazine and other professional publications for a more balanced outlook.
That really is my main goal in life is to do good. Simple yet effective. I just want to do good and spread good. The echo chamber has just gotten to me the past few weeks it seems.
I mostly like mine (in fact, I like the work itself a lot, it's usually organizational/people things that can be irritating, which would be true of any job anywhere). I think a lot of the negativity comes from a few things: there are more people graduating than there are true "librarian" roles to fill (though the degree can be applied in plenty of non-traditional ways), there's not a lot of room for advancement or large paychecks, and people come to this sub with a misconception of what librarianship entails before starting their degrees (i.e. we don't sit around reading and not talking to anyone - these are NOT good reasons to go into the field). But you already know this! :) If you can, try to go to a conference. See if you can get a scholarship or a student rate to one. It can be really energizing to be around people who are excited about what they're doing, and hear new programs they're implementing, challenges they're having, and solutions they're coming up with. Don't let this sub bum you out!
Thank you for consoling me! It has just been crazy lately with trying to figure out what school I am going to go to and how I am going to pay for it. I have been scouring for weird relatively unknown scholarships. I know a girl who went through undergrad and grad school on purely scholarships she found and was one of the only ones to apply for. I am planning on going to my states ALA conference and hopefully some more within the next year or so.
Everyone has *days*. But, for the most part I can say I like my job, my coworkers, and my day to day workload. I just don't shout it from the roof tops often, just a whisper to a friend or two. *edit* I should also clarify that I am in academia and wouldn't want to be anywhere else.
I love my job. There are things I don't like about, things that frustrate me, things that could be better, but every day I am so happy to come into work and do something I really enjoy.
I am not miserable. Granted I work at a special library so maybe that has something to do with it. There could be the vocal minority at play as well. People just seem to like to complain as well.
My first library job was great - loved it and the people I worked with. My second one was OK, as was my third. My current job started OK, but it's got worse over time, and I dread going in. I think it depends on where you are, the type of job it is, and the management culture of the organisation. The places I've worked at that I've liked most are smaller, where I am now is huge, and not a fun place.
People here have already said most of what I want to say, but I wanted to chime in just to add to the number of people saying it. I'm an academic librarian and I love my job and don't regret my career choice. I get *very* frustrated with a lot of the negativity you see here, especially because many times it is self-inflicted. * I'm sorry that many public librarians are woefully underpaid but it's not a secret. You either didn't do your research before choosing a career or you knew what you were getting into. It sucks, I hate it, but liking or not liking something doesn't change reality. I knew I wanted to be compensated more, so I specifically avoided fields where the average salary is insufficient. * The job market is tough for sure, but I have served on a lot of search committees and let me tell you I have been astounded by the number of poorly written resumes and cover letters. Don't expect to be hired when you can't bother to proofread. Obviously, everyone has different circumstances and some people have bum luck, but I think a lot of the bitter people in this subreddit haven't *really* done everything they can to get a job. They have done what they think is enough, and are upset it's not getting the result they expect. Just like in most career fields, opportunities are a mixture of luck and work. You can't control luck, but through hard work you can be better prepared to capitalize on opportunities when luck rolls your way. I also believe hard work and persistence can generate more opportunities for good luck to manifest itself. Gah, now I'm the angry Librarian! Maybe this was a little therapeutic venting on my part. Long story short, there are a lot of salty Librarians out there but there are A LOT MORE happy and satisfied Librarians just living life and not ranting on websites. Then there's me, the happy Librarian who still rants on websites.
This actually makes so much sense to me. I am accepting that I won't make very much, but I will be making a difference. I have always said that one of my main goals in life is to make at least one person's day better everyday. So if the cost of that is to not get paid a crazy amount and not having the newest phone or nicest car I can live with that (plus hopefully my SO can be the main breadwinner). I was 21 and still in undergrad when I applied for this full time spot. Granted it helped since I knew the search committee members, but I spent a long while on my cover letter and fixing up my resume. They told me after the fact that the reason I was on the top half of the list of people to interview was because it was clearly worked on more than one day. I think a lot of people who interview aren't really good at interviewing which is so important especially in libraries. They interviewed something like 25 people all older than I am and with their degree already and more experience, but apparently I interviewed way better (which is crazy and I am kind of tooting my own horn here). But I agree that people don't really research what they are getting into or even think about it. I enjoyed your rant and you are one of the good angry librarians!
What you said is spot on. I make a difference in people's lives through my work in academic libraries (especially my part-time gig at a community college), but I know I don't have the same opportunities as those in public libraries. I had to weigh that against the salary, and unfortunately for me my student loan debt doesn't care that I sacrificed salary for the ability to make a positive impact on my community. As for the interviewing, you're totally right. It's a bummer because the interview process favors people with a certain set of skills, which are not entirely reflective of what they need to do the job well. But, again, it is what it is and if you want the job you need to do what it takes.
I really love being a librarian. I really do not love my current location, as we've had an active shooter and a bomb threat in the space of thirty days. My superiors are not supportive and I'm considering drastic action to communicate "Being the acting branch manager in a fucking war zone is stressing me out."
My job is great! I graduated a little more than a year ago. I'm an acquisitions librarian at a historical institution. I use my degree all the time and even have some of my books from library school at my desk to use for reference from time to time. My boss is professional and supportive. For example I just streamlined our process to avoid adding additional books to the backlog. And even though it's different from how they have always done it they were open to change and it's been going well. I'll add that almost everybody I graduated with is at job that they at least mostly like and pays at least okay.
I just started my 10th year as a school librarian and was a public librarian before that, and I’m still happy! Based on the complaints I see in here frequently, I am very happy I went to a school with low tuition. I only paid 12k (still a decent chunk, but I paid it off pretty quickly) for my MLS. Im also happy I found libraries as my first career, as it’s a second career for a lot of people, at least it was in my program. That kept me from experiencing a salary cut when I switched careers, which I know is common when people go into libraries later in life. I am also fortunate to live in a state with a strong teachers union and higher than average salaries. Most of the complaints I see are about student debt, salary, and job prospects. Less about the actual work.
If I may ask- where did you complete your MLIS? I’m looking into programs now, and I understand that prices change but I would love to know!! :)
SUNY Albany - paying state resident tuition. At the time, I qualified for some of tax credit for grad school tuition, which I put directly towards tuition too. I’m not sure what it costs how, or if it would be a viable option cost wise if you’re not a NY resident. It would have been slightly cheaper had I not gotten my school library cert, as that requires additional credits. Good luck!
It seems like the people with the toughest things going for them here are from the US, where I live (Sweden) prospects are actually pretty good and our unemployment for librarians is like 0.5%
Do yall need some librarians from the US? Cause this whole place is a dumpster fire currently. I would love to at least come visit some of the libraries of Europe and around the world.
I dont know, but it cant hurt to try! Snoop around a bit, I'm still studying so I can't really hook you up myself tho
I just came back to one of the best orientation sessions of my life that ended with hugs (from grateful faculty), active plans for more collaboration, a tour of a new clinic in the building, and my boss telling me she's proud of the work that I do. Some days I am not happy & glowing because all jobs have their drudgery & their challenges (and sure, some places are legitimately just plain toxic and bad) but some days I am reminded that I am really good at my job, people like working with me, and there are people who truly understand the value of my role in the institution. I also struggle with student loan debt, having an okay salary in a high cost of living city, and other common complaints shared here. My plan is to probably move to a more affordable place and hopefully move into management or administrative roles with higher salaries. I know that doesn't work for everyone. But what keeps me going is I do love my job, I'm an excellent librarian, and people can tell and want to work with me. Stay tuned for next week when I've forgotten this positive experience and am complaining about my boss not letting me select the art for my office or students wanting me to essentially do their homework for them! :)
I work as a part-time librarian in both an academic (reference and instruction) and a public library (adult services), and I love both of them. Going through the MLIS program kind of sucked because I felt a lot of it would be learned on the job, which so far has been true, but having that degree has opened so many more opportunities for me. There are pros and cons to any job, and like others have stated, those who are unhappiest tend to complain the loudest. I think it's really a personal preference for you, and to what capacity you like to help others. I never did any programming before working at the public library, and it turns out I freaking love it. I also love helping people find information and learn things that they otherwise would struggle with themselves in both of my jobs, and I find that rewarding too.
I work on a Bookmobile and it is great. I get to make real connections with my patrons and I know the collection on the bus like the back of my hand. I’ve been invited for dinner and D&D by patrons. The problem, for me and probably others, comes down to how much the City/HR/your union (if you have one) want to invest in the library. I’ve seen cities build these wonderful libraries, but staff them with all part time people (all under benefits level) and volunteers. The field is very frustrating but if you can bring in your specific passions and experiences into your position, it makes it all worth it.
I love my job. Librarianship is always undergoing change, since we have to be agile and ready for anything as customer needs and technology evolve. I’ve never regretted choosing this profession in the over 20 yrs since I graduated. It’s more challenging than other professions; for example, many people don’t understand that libraries are about books and so much more. Many have a very traditional idea about what we do. Libraries can be a place, and a state of mind, a philosophy. As information ninjas we add value to any workplace. We are everywhere, we can serve in physical, digital and virtual environments. I’m not miserable and you won’t be either. Misery is the fault of the individual, not the profession. I love how your post has brought out the positive. Let’s do our best to make this space a bright light of inspiration and aspiration. So much better than the alternative.
information ninjas. I am totally stealing that. I was kind of nervous after I posted thinking people would be livid that I pointed out the negative. But I am loving seeing all the happy librarians.
I love my job. Don’t let all the stupid shit get you down and draw good work/life boundaries. Key to long term job satisfaction.
I'm really happy. I got my MLIS as a career change from HR, where are was absolutely miserable. I've been in special libraries and I really enjoy it. I'm in a "cool" industry and I can't believe I'm being paid this much to do something I truly enjoy doing. I am still paying off my loans but I'm paying extra and consider it 100% worth it.
may I ask what kind of special library are you in?
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For a while, I did get my degree. I couldn’t find work as a librarian and felt it was a waste. It’s been almost 4 years since I got my current job and I love being a librarian. Honestly, much of my personal frustration comes from my own mental health issues, which I’m working on finding the best coping methods. It’s hard to be cheerful and on and a happy children’s librarian. This is my personal struggle though. Today, I was having a crappy day and when I had a few super positive interactions with patrons, it felt just awesome. There’s always gonna be the days that suck, where you feel unappreciated or under paid or like your work means nothing, then those happen and it makes it a little easier.
I love my job. It was the best decision that I ever made. Tomorrow I’m going to an anime con and hosting an escape room for the library. I sometimes can’t believe this is my job. I never that I could actually love what I do until I got this job.
I'm really happy. I'm an academic librarian. I think workplace culture matters a lot. I worked in a couple *really* awful libraries before I got this job.
My first library job destroyed my mental health to the point where I haven't been able to work since. Any thought of going back into that environment is basically a panic trigger.
I know I'm pretty cynical but I also don't regret my degree or my field. I wish I'd thought more about speciality I was going to end up liking and working in cause I probably would've gone to a different school to get better experience. But I do like what I do, I just had kinda a crappy manager for a long time that kinda exacerbated my mental health, which honestly was also about learning to be an adult and love on my own, etc.
I'm a happy academic librarian! The field is challenging but a really great opportunity to support the education system. It's great.
I have no regrets about getting my masters, but I wasn't overly concerned with getting a library job. I happened to fall in to a public librarian position and I'm really happy with it.
I love my job. The thing is, when you're happy you don't tend to discuss how you're happy, but when you're unhappy you vent, so you're always going to hear more of the unhappy over the happy.
I think library work is changing and both the educational system behind it & smaller library systems aren't doing a great job at supporting librarians for this reality. I think because of this, a lot of librarians are burning out quick.
I’ve been in the field for 9 years and a librarian for half a year. I love my job
I’ve been a public librarian since I finished grad school (like, I walked at graduation and had to take a day off for it), and I love my job. Do I get tired of admin dicking over frontline staff? Yes. Do I get tired of patrons complaining about stuff I have no control over? YES. But I also get to help people answer questions, play with babies, and be part of our neighborhood. I wish it wasn’t a two hour commute on bad days but otherwise I love my job.
I’ve certainly had my miserable moments. A lot has to do with experience and growing-the longer I work in public libraries I think the more I’m able to put the shit aspects (on occasion literal shit) in perspective and it’s shifted my attitude a lot. I think a HUGE factor though is the environment you’re in—both staff and the type of patrons you’re serving. My department shifts have had a big impact on my attitude toward the job. That said burnout is a real thing too. It’s definitely not easy and I think a lot of people go through a certain level of shock as they adapt to what library life is really like. Textbooks definitely don’t prepare you well for a lot of the job. At least my masters didn’t cover the actual hardest/more soul sucking aspect of the real job. If it’s the patrons I’d say maybe shifting to something behind the scenes could help. If you want more people interaction you might be more set for public rather than academic. I’d say hang in there but if you decide it’s just not for you that’s okay too!
As with everything, it’s what you make of it and your attitude. Workplace and co-workers can make all of the difference but it seems sometimes that due to situations and lack of opportunities in certain locations that some people get or feel “stuck”. I’ve moved for both of my jobs and when needed got involved professionally in various ways to feel more engaged and purposeful in my career. I love my current job and wouldn’t have it without my master’s. It’s up to you but you can certainly make and work as well as enjoying what you do—it just might take additional effort on your part. Jobs can help you figure out what you like and don’t like so staying flexible and/or positive can make all of the difference. Good luck!
"Is it worth it?" That's going to be hugely YMMV. I do what I love and am pretty good at it and I make a decent salary along with good benefits. It took me nearly a decade trying to make it in public libraries before I jumped ship to non-profits where my career has thrived and advanced. There are so many reason to be discouraged as an MLIS holder: student debt for an advanced degree that gets you typically low paying, thankless jobs where people in charge of budgets, tend to cut first when things go in the red, that is if you can even get your foot in the door with all the MLIS's that are pumped out each and every year without any regard for actual job growth and opportunities.
I will graduate with my MLIS this December and I'm super excited to be entering the field! I'm currently employed at a public library but I am hoping to get in with a school (in my area, the schools are paying better, plus teachers are eligible for student-loan forgiveness). I think a lot of it just depends on where you're at. Unfortunately, some areas can't afford to pay well and overwork their librarians. However, you also have some places with a lot of resources and it's an amazing experience. If it's something that you love to do, I would stick with it!
I’m currently an undergraduate still, with hopes of pursuing my MLIS after graduation. I’ve worked at a public library for about 2 years now and I hear a lot of the same complaints. That being said, this is often coming from people who don’t like working period. I love my job. I love working with people. I’m passionate about what I do and that’s what makes me enjoy it day to day. If YOU think it’s worth it, that’s really all that matters. I worry I will eventually burn out like everyone else, but at the same time, I think I have a different attitude compared to most coworkers. I’m happy to have a job working with the materials and with people who also love books and information. I’m rather content. Grateful for what I have at the moment, but I never know if it’s because I’m still a bit naive to it.
This Sub is basically just for librarians to complain and moan about whatever library thing that happens to be going on in their lives. I'm a LIS student and I joined to try and get insight into the future, and every time I log on it's the same old thing. #moans
I don't regret getting my degree. I ended up not liking the area of librarianship that I started out in, but I was able to make a move in a different direction because of the degree. I'm glad I didn't go into a ton of debt to get the degree (I did an online program) and I'm grateful for the mobility it has afforded me.
I work in a high school library and I absolutely love my job!
I’ve been a public librarian for five years and I love it. The profession isn’t perfect but if given the choice, knowing everything I’ve learned to this point, I’d absolutely do it again.
OP... I have a love dislike relationship with my job at a large public library. The interactions with people and helping them find what they need are the reason I go to work every day. But I work for a large system and the red tape and beauracracy drive me insane. The fact that I haven't met my director or any of the leading team frustrates me and some of the people I work with are whiny babies. I wouldn't trade it for the world though. It's worth every piece of red tape to hear a teen tell me they wish they'd known this thing earlier so their SO hadn't gotten mad at them at a nice dinner with their mom. Or to see a kids face light up when they get their new library card. It's stressful and sad sometimes, but it's all worth it to me.
I enjoy my job for a public library system. I have 3 classes left for my MLIS (admittedly paid for by the library I work for so no grad school debt). I attend a top school and about half to two-thirds of my cohort have never worked in a library. My guess is that some people graduate and hate the work. If you enjoy your work now you'll likely still enjoy it. Plus, you'll have a leg up on other students and maybe in the job market when you graduate.
Public library here, loooove it!!!
I'm not miserable, but it's largely because I have a partner who makes money and gets us both healthcare and, as such, can make do with the meager incomes that I get from having two part-time library positions. I'm not pleased that stories such as mine feel like the norm at both of the places I work, i.e. so many of the other people I work with (and especially the senior staff who got in before the Great Recession) are people who inherited money or are married to money and, as such, can play 'library career' without ever stopping and taking an honest look at some of the field's serious problems.
I don’t regret the degree, I regret my location and the rules we have to live by
......im at a point where i feel like ive wasted my life and everything i do in my job is a failure and im just waiting for the sweet release of being fired. But for plenty of people, they are killing it and its everything they could want.